Description:
Technical Developer, Footwear

About us:
Target is an iconic brand, a Fortune 50 company and one of America's leading retailers.

At the heart of one of the world's best loved and most recognizable brands is an impeccable Product Development. We thrive on the magic of discovering that just-right thing, and we infuse everything we do with our passion for affordable chic. We concept, develop, make and deliver the stylish new favorites that Target guests expect and deserve. We are uber-savvy trend and style experts who stay ahead of the curve, proactively identifying our market's needs and exceeding them, every time. Join one of our dynamic and inventive teams to influence the style, quality and value that decisively position Target above the competition. Your input will have a direct and positive effect. Here, you'll be close to the action of dreaming up and bringing to life the Target-owned brands that surprise and gratify guests, wherever and whenever they love to shop.

A role with the Development team means a big opportunity to start from scratch and create something truly original. Are you a Footwear expert who can support your business by staying one step ahead of industry trends, new materials and techniques? Can you demonstrate the utmost attention to detail and create products that are unprecedented in the marketplace for their value? Then you'll have success on our development team who owns the design and development of all Target-owned brands. In close partnership with our merchant and sourcing counterparts, you'll drive brand cohesion and continuity, ensuring that our products meet the merchant line plans, assortment strategies, price points and guest expectations

Responsibilities

· Collaborate with the Designer to research, sketch, and develop guest-focused Owned Brand product from concept through execution

· Partner with Sr. Technical Designer, Designer, Merchandising, Sourcing and Vendors to deliver on product objectives and business strategy while adhering to calendar timelines

· Oversee footwear product development at the category level through developing and managing close vendor relationships, promoting adherence to standards, and advance guest-focused Owned Brand product from concept through execution.

· Communicate daily with internal and external partners to ensure high quality execution in materials, components, and fit

· Lead live model fit sessions and evaluate samples for fit, construction, and quality (Womens and Mens categories only)

· Identify/alleviate potential manufacturing, quality, and fit concerns within the product development cycle

· Conduct market research of competitors, benchmarks, and whitespace to engineer value and drive development of cost viable products

· Drive guest research and wear testing to build products that foster love and loyalty

· Review production issues and collaborate with Cross Functional Team to resolve

· Document, and implement technical processes, brand standards, and development testing that aligns to brand

· Assist in vendor training and certification programs

· Assist in building and maintaining last library

· Travel internationally and domestically to support business as needed

· Performs other duties or projects as required/assigned by manager

About you:

· 4-year degree in technical design, product design, industrial design, or equivalent experience

· 3-5 years' experience in footwear product and development

· Strong knowledge of footwear fit, construction, molds/blueprints, and lasts

· Current in industry standard technical knowledge of footwear development and manufacturing processes, in both man-made and genuine leather materials

· Proficient in use of relevant computer applications (Photoshop, Illustrator, Microsoft Office Suite, PLM system)

· Robust problem solving and decision-making skills

· Respects, appreciates and values diverse voices and approaches.

· Committed to creating equitable experiences and fostering an inclusive team.

· Adept at working in a fast-paced, often changing, highly collaborative environment

· Strong verbal and written communication skills

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Target will provide reasonable accommodations (such as a qualified sign language interpreter or other personal assistance) with the application process upon your request as required to comply with applicable laws. If you have a disability and require assistance in this application process, please visit your nearest Target store or Distribution Center or reach out to Guest Services at 1-800-440-0680 for additional information.

Qualifications: